Who will rise up?
One athlete will be featured in a 3BRAND national advertising campaign to appear on CBS and in Sports Illustrated, plus take home $25,000.
DOLLARS RAISED IN 2025
$24,110,404
2026 Beneficiary
Founded in 2014, Russell Wilson and Ciara’s Why Not You Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing education, children’s health, and the fight against poverty, empowering today’s youth to lead with a “Why Not You?” attitude and the confidence to make a difference.
The Championship Experience
From hometown games to the national stage, the champion will claim an unforgettable experience designed for athletes with a true love of the game and dreams of competing at the next level.
Represent Greatness
Russell Wilson’s 3BRAND creates youth apparel that encourages the next generation to chase greatness with a winning mindset.
Step into the Spotlight
The Youth Athlete of the Year will be flown in for a professional athletic commercial shoot to represent 3BRAND in an ad campaign to appear on CBS and in Sports Illustrated.
Unlock the VIP Treatment
Get the full red carpet experience and be honored on stage at the official Family Film & TV Awards airing on CBS.
Learn from the Best
Discover how to compete at the highest level with a one-on-one mentoring session with Russell Wilson.
Professional Insights
Meet the Lineup
-
![Colossal Youth Athlete of the Year x Russell Wilson]()
Russell Wilson
NFL Quarterback
With a Super Bowl title and 10 Pro Bowl selections, Russell Wilson is a veteran NFL quarterback and founder of the Why Not You Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty through education and empowering today’s youth to become tomorrow’s leaders.
-
![Colossal Youth Athlete of the Year x Kevin Love]()
Kevin Love
NBA Forward
NBA champion and five-time All-Star Kevin Love is a veteran forward known for his scoring, rebounding, and championship pedigree, playing a key role in Cleveland’s 2016 title and earning Olympic gold with Team USA.
-
![Colossal Youth Athlete of the Year x David Ortiz Big Papi]()
David 'Big Papi' Ortiz
MLB Designated Hitter
David Ortiz is a legendary MLB designated hitter and World Series champion, known for his impact at the plate and leadership on the field. He brings that same insight and energy as a sports analyst, sharing his knowledge of the game.
2025 Champion
Tripp
From football to lacrosse to basketball, Tripp is a dedicated athlete who loves being challenged. With Cooper Kupp, Justin Jefferson, and Jim Everett as idols, he has big aspirations and brings energy and teamwork to every game.
FAQ
Is Youth Athlete of the Year legit?
Yes! Youth Athlete of the Year is a nationwide competition inviting young athletes of all skill levels and backgrounds to compete for the opportunity to be featured in a 3BRAND national advertising campaign appearing on CBS and in Sports Illustrated, and take home $25,000. The competition benefits Russell Wilson and Ciara’s Why Not You Foundation.
How does it work?
The winner is chosen through public voting. Once the competition begins, athletes will receive a unique voting link to share with their friends, family, and fans. Supporters can cast 1 free vote daily for their favorite young athlete, or they can choose to make a donation benefiting the Why Not You Foundation. Every $1 donated = 1 additional vote.
Where does the money go?
The Competition is operated as part of a fundraising campaign (“Campaign”) for DTCare, a United States 501(c)(3) public charity organization. Donations raised from votes by donation cast during this Competition go directly to DTCare, which will subsequently grant the donations, minus Competition fees (36.5%) and variable costs (including payment processing fees, operating and prize costs, etc., not to exceed 12.5%), as well as a nominal percentage (1%) retained by DTCare, to the Why Not You Foundation. DTCare retains exclusive custody and control over all funds raised during the Competition.
Learn more by visiting the competition rules.
Do Sports Illustrated, CBS, 3BRAND, or the Why Not You Foundation run this competition?
No. Colossal Management, LLC runs the Youth Athlete of the Year competition as part of a fundraising campaign on behalf of DTCare, a 501(c)(3) charity.